Putin Wins a Pawn

A breakaway territory is edging closer to formal union with Moscow.

Dec. 14, 2016 7:25 pm ET

Moldova’s breakaway territory of Transnistria held a presidential vote Sunday, and Vladimir Putin was the winner. The leading candidates for the self-styled presidency were all pro-Kremlin figures who favor Russian control over their so-called country.

Former Speaker of Parliament Vadim Krasnoselski was declared the winner Monday with 62% of the ballot. Incumbent President Evgeniy Shevchuk came second with 28%. Both men enjoy close ties to Russian power circles.